New studies have shown that people suffering from knee osteoarthritis can greatly reduce their pain by losing 10% of their weight. They can also improve their mobility and walk faster.
Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of disability in older adults affecting about 250 million people worldwide. According to Stephen Messier, an author and professor of health and exercise science at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC, “Mobility is critical to be able to grow old independently.”
According to the Arthritis Foundation, Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition characterized by the breakdown of the joint’s cartilage. This breakdown causes the bones to rub against each other causing stiffness and pain for individuals.
Obesity is a major factor causing osteoarthritis. The load of the joints has an effect on the knee. Studies have shown that people who diet and exercise have less knee pain, walk faster and feel better about performing activities of daily living.
People who lose more than 10% of their body weight have less pain, better mobility, decreased joint load and decreased inflammation from osteoarthritis.
Treatment plans include a combination of exercise, weight control, joint protection, physical and occupational therapy and medication.
Do you suffer from joint pain and do you think losing weight may be beneficial to you?
